Renowned Agricultural Scientist and Pioneer of India's Green Revolution, MS Swaminathan, Passes Away at 98 in Chennai

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Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan , fondly remembered as M.S. Swaminathan, the eminent agricultural visionary and a pivotal figure behind India 's transformative ' Green Revolution ,' peacefully departed from this world at his residence in Chennai on September 28, 2023, at the age of 98.

His legacy endures through his three daughters - Soumya Swaminathan, Madhura Swaminathan, and Nitya Rao , though his beloved wife, Mina Swaminathan , had preceded him in death.

M.S. Swaminathan was born on August 7, 1925, in the picturesque town of Kumbakonam. His parents, M.K. Sambasivan, a distinguished surgeon, and Parvati Thangammal , nurtured his early years. His curiosity in the realm of agricultural science took root during his formative years. His father's involvement in India's struggle for independence and the profound influence of Mahatma Gandhi further ignited his passion for the subject.

This fervor led him to pursue advanced studies in agricultural science, steering him away from the path that might have seen him as a police officer, for which he had qualified in the late 1940s. By this time, he had already earned two undergraduate degrees, including one from the Agricultural College, Coimbatore, now known as Tamil Nadu Agricultural University.

Dr. Swaminathan forged a close partnership with two Union Agriculture Ministers, C. Subramaniam (1964-67) and Jagjivan Ram (1967-70 & 1974-77), in realizing the aspirations of the 'Green Revolution.' This groundbreaking initiative marked a turning point in India's agricultural landscape, ushering in a remarkable surge in wheat and rice production through the judicious application of chemical and biological technologies. The profound influence of Norman Borlaug , the renowned American agronomist and 1970 Nobel Laureate, played an instrumental role in these endeavors.

Today, as we bid farewell to M.S. Swaminathan, we also celebrate the enduring legacy of a man who dedicated his life to transforming India's agricultural sector and ensuring food security for millions. His pioneering work continues to inspire generations, serving as a beacon of hope for a sustainable and prosperous future in agriculture.